Yes, pushups are a good exercise for the chest. According to Healthline, push-ups work the pectoralis major and minor, which are the primary muscles in the chest. They also engage other muscles to contribute to overall upper body strength.
How Pushups Benefit the Chest and More
While pushups are often associated with chest workouts, they offer a range of benefits:
- Build Upper Body Strength: Pushups engage multiple muscle groups, contributing to overall upper body strength.
- Work Multiple Muscles: Besides the chest, pushups target the triceps, anterior deltoids, and core muscles.
- Improve Body Composition: Regular pushups can help improve overall body composition.
- Reduce risk of Cardiac Events: According to research cited by Healthline performing pushups can significantly reduce the risk of cardiac events.
Muscles Worked During Pushups
Here's a breakdown of the muscles involved during a pushup:
| Muscle Group | Role |
|---|---|
| Pectoralis Major/Minor | Primary chest muscles responsible for adduction and internal rotation of the arm. |
| Triceps | Extend the elbow, assisting in pushing the body up. |
| Anterior Deltoids | Assist in shoulder flexion and stabilization. |
| Core Muscles | Stabilize the spine and maintain body alignment. |
